"Beginnings" (Chicago Cover) by Leonid & Friends, Reaction/Analysis by Musician/Producer

[@flightforensics4523]

When I was in High School marching band circa 1974, we did Beginning followed by 25 or 6 to 4. It was my fav song then...as it still is almost 50 years later. Leonid and Friends? So glad I found them and got to see them TWICE in Florida ❤

[@jimbizness3864]

Sergey Kashirin is the man. This was recorded about the time they began touring. Yes. The horns are great. They copy virtually every note and nuance from the original recording, so one must credit Kath, Loughnane, and Pankow for such tasty improvisation at such a young age (early 20s).

[@tonydziedziak3686]

Chicago is the greatest band in the world!

[@Trojanality]

No one else can do what these ultra talented musicians can. Never enjoyed covers of songs until Leonid & Friends. The fact that they can actually take a great song from the past and actually do it better than the original artists is beyond remarkable.

[@georgemcreddie6490]

The trombone and trumpet solos were spot on. Jimmy Pankow and Lee Loughnane would be proud!

[@panamacitybeachbum]

Sergey K.'s talent is phenomenal. His vocals are so bright.

[@vegaswillie]

The final minute of this song was unbelievable. Every instrument was identifiable if you specifically listened for it. Whoever mixes, produces or puts all those sounds together is a genius. I can't believe that after listening to maybe 15 songs at least 50 times each over a few months that I'm still blown away the same way I was the very first time I listened to Leonid & Friends. They're incredible.

[@alynnglo9172]

Totally agree. I watch it over and over and still have that uplift in my Soul

[@vegaswillie]

@@RubyBandUSA Of course it's Leonid. Of course he is a genius. Of course I've read the credits. Of course Leonid is the "whoever" reference. Thanks for paying such close attention to detail, just like Leonid does. 👍

[@StrateleStudios]

@@vegaswillie Willie, don’t pay attention to this guy, he’s been identified as a troll. He’s trying to start trouble. 🫶

[@vegaswillie]

@@StrateleStudios thanks for the heads up Jeff I think it's time to,as you said in one of your videos, "Relinquish" his right to comment". I loved how diplomatic you were when you said that in your video about trolls. Thanks my friend. Leonid and friends, it's right around the corner . I'm jealous you're going to get to meet Ksenia before I do. She will never be the same LOL

[@StrateleStudios]

@@vegaswillie 🤣 You got that right. I’m going to try and take a picture with Ksenia just for you my friend! 😃🫶 Btw, that troll is GONE!

[@jeremymcmahon8437]

The guys that have come into the group to replace the ones who left are great. But you can see why a lot of us were so bummed when Sergey left the group. Great voice and phenomenal on guitar.

[@thebiggestskiver]

Surfing around KZbin about 18 months ago for Chicago , the algorithim threw up 'Beginnings' by Leonid & Friends. A real 'knock your socks off' moment! Describing them as a cover band really doesn't cut it, they're all world class musicians in their own right, absolutely on top of their game.

[@matto9734]

Holy Moly the trombone solo!!! An so nice that the brass section is featured!!! L&F are so endgame GOOD!!! The best thing with them that they ooze positivity, fun and joy. So much needed in these times... and thnx Jeff for sharing these gems with us!

[@frankdoyle3716]

I close my eyes and I'm a teenager again hearing this for the first time!

[@rickstadel5285]

Perfectly put !

[@pepevisedo7304]

Maybe the best song from Chicago. Possibly the best translation of Leonid & Friends

[@Kimmcmahon]

Goosebumps for sure! I do miss Sergey

[@HappyinHillsborough]

Leonid and Friends killed it - and they have done so many amazing covers.....they seem to be perfect.

[@DavidLopez-dk5ef]

Le plus grand groupe de reprise de Chicago de la galaxie.,... Hello de Bordeaux (France) J'adore tes vidéos et tes analyses musicale...👍

[@StrateleStudios]

Un grand merci! 🫶

[@dotlund1096]

4 years of French in high school...feel proud to understand this message! 👍

[@vegasatc]

Try to put into words… amazing - incredible - wonderful - phenomenal - masterful - etc..

[@alainbrouillaud484]

Jeff… we all are feeling the magic the Leonid & Friends are bringing to music!

[@joanneramsey7723]

Everything they cover is spot on. Vocals amazing

[@fredradon2484]

These guys give the chills and make me smile everytime!

[@johncarlon7035]

I'm not sure it is possible to have a favorite Chicago song but this is it for me. So many memories and one of the horn pieces that made me pick up my tenor sax which led to a lifetime of joy. Horn section killed it here. Leonid on bass...wow!!! Sergey, spot on. What a fantastic group of musicians......

[@thegoodlife-myrtlebeach]

Chicago is one of my favorites! I grew up in the 70s with two older brothers so I got exposed to the music they listened to. Chicago was one of them. ❤

[@brettwells66]

Hey me too.

[@Duh6666666]

The ending is epic, when the baritone sax player starts in on the bells everything explodes in intensity, great choice Jeff!

[@rickderby8438]

EPIC!!!!!!!

[@DonDixit]

Totally nailed it. They're so tight and joyful, it almost gets emotional.

[@benarmentano3799]

They NAILED this one- right down to the exact drum fills and the trombone and trumpet solos were not for note!! And they even did the ending that Chicago plays when they do this song in concert!

[@pfdfcc]

I have watched so may of your Leonid & Friends Chicago reactions and I cry through every one of them. They are SO spot on it gives me goosebumps! Your reactions are priceless. BRAVO!

[@erik1836]

Well, there is that is that! Lol So true.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you so much!!!

[@osimnod]

This was one of their earlier releases and such a treat to hear. L & F has changed some of its members, all of whom are talented in their own right, but Sergey stands out with everything: guitar solos, lead and backing vocals -- impeccable. And it is entertaining to watch you, Jeff, in the thumbnail, as you react to each song. You really appreciate their musicianship because you recognize the talent.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you my friend!

[@shariboyle1166]

It's so crazy how great they are!!!! I wish Sergey was still in the group! He was truly unbelievable! You will love them when you see them in concert!!! I can't get enough of them! ❤❤❤

[@kstelmar99]

drummer is a machine

[@luisrebolledo8123]

Otra impresionante ejecución con este clásico de la banda Chicago, Saben enfocar ese sonido tan de los 60's que siempre caracterizo a Chicago. Esta cancion trae alegria y vida a cualquier alma triste. Leonid y sus Amigos son una banda fenomenal impresionante, es imposible no disfrutar cada melodía cada nota musical y en los rostros de cada cantante se ve que disfrutan lo que hacen. En cualquier idioma levantan la admiración y alegria de quien reconoce el valor de estas canciones de la banda Chicago. Sin embargo las interpretaciones de las canciones de la banda musical Earth Wind & Fire son excelentes, les aplaudo de pie.

[@qtrhors1]

Been listening to and loving Chicago since I was 12(1972). I started sax and piano in grade school. I never dreamed I would hear a group play this to perfection. I seen them in concert and thet are mind blowing live too. I could see many in the crowd we just shocked at how good they were. I would go see them again....just amazing.

[@thierryjulien572]

The Chicago transit authority was the second album I bought together with Abbey Road. I was fifteen. What L&F reproduced is awesome. Top cover.

[@allanpolk2681]

This is my all-time favorite Chicago song. I purchased the 8-track of Chicago Transit Authority right when it came out in the spring of 1969, not knowing anything about the band, but was totally blown away by the time the front half of the tape was done. I had a 65 Chevy Impala with an 8-track tape player in it, with monster speakers, and when I listened to Chicago, so did everyone in a two-block radius.

[@pauldesmond9873]

Thanks, Jeff! On my way to see them in Atlanta NOW! What a fabulous horn interlude! BAP

[@dotlund1096]

Lucky! Have fun. I have to wait until November when they’re in NorCal.

[@Noworries555justdreams]

Igor is a beast❤

[@robing9278]

It is PURE JOY!

[@erik1836]

As hard as this is for our Friends to do this imagine the creative power it took Chicago to dream it up and then bring it to the levels they did when they had nothing but a wing and a prayer and their belief in the value of their creation.

[@Mrtellitlikeitis]

I waited for this one. Horns, harmonies, the lead almost sounds like original No words as usual for these guys Oh, i found the words Ksneia is beautiful. Still hopeful! Lol

[@mleary001]

Having been a big Chicago fan and played drums in a jazz rock band in high school in 1972, I have performed Beginnings dozens of times and listened to it hundreds more. This is perhaps better than the original and certainly better than the 8 times I heard Chicago perform it in concert. A special shoutout to Igor, who covered Danny Seraphine’s complex and challenging drum part with ease.

[@vegaswillie]

Jeff, I feel like you do about this group. I can't get enough and i want more. This was from start to finish, 13 people in the zone at the same time.

[@davidwand8046]

I was learning to play the trumpet back in 1970 when Chicago was recording. I was so grateful to catch them live in Montreal in 1974 and Toronto in 1977.

[@dougdornseif]

BANG FREAKING ON!! Another masterpiece. I was right back in junior high!

[@janiscollette1737]

Yes! I've been so waiting for your reaction to this!!!!! This was the song that led me into the L&R world! This was my parents song when I was growing up and I have loved it since I was 8 years old! I love it even more now. Seeing them do this live with the original band was an honor! Old Days should be coming up soon!

[@davidlevine1697]

its like a freight train leaving the yard and coming up to speed. perfect road trip music. so nice to hear and see the extra horns, too. ☮❤🙏

[@RudyAsuncion-i8j]

I LOVE THEM TOO. WATCHED THEM EVERYTIME I'M ON MY COMPUTER. THANKS FOR GIVING AN EXPERT ANALYSIS AND OPINION ABOUT THIS GROUP. THE FEMALE SINGER IS INCREDIBLE. I'D LIKE TO KNOW IF THEY HAVE ORIGINAL COMPOSITION. I;D LIKE TO HEAR THEM.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@RudyAsuncion-i8j 🫶

[@МихаилБурканов]

Search L&F "The Speck Of Dust".

[@Gary-go3ob]

Good job, keep going!!

[@mikesed860]

This was the first song by them that got me following them about 4 years ago and I haven't stopped listening, and I just had a chance to see them perform live last week.

[@rickstadel5285]

And were you disappointed ? I sure wasn't (the one time that I saw them live) !

[@mikesed860]

@@rickstadel5285 there were highlights and lowlights, they sounded awesome, off course can't compare to the studio quality, I could do with less of the saxophone players antiques, way to much of a push. And was disappointed with my man Igor's solo in the middle of the show I felt it missed the potential of a really good drum player. I think if they would make some changes to their overall presentation they would be a tremendously successful live event that no one would want to miss,but overall very happy I got to see them.

[@mikesed860]

@@rickstadel5285 wondering if you have heard about the 5 Indonesia kids playing jazz fusion. If you have not reacted to them I guarantee that they will blow you away.

[@christianmaheu9565]

that is the first song that brought me to Leonid and Friends

[@dotlund1096]

Me too! To say how many times I’ve watched this would be embarrassing! Thank the heavens for Leonid & Friends....they helped get me thru covid times! 🥰

[@christianmaheu9565]

@@dotlund1096 Chicago had many, many great songs, but this one is my favorite. I watched it a few times (a lot) too.

[@jimrentz]

Just saw them in concert earlier this week and they were simply amazing. Such a great group of people as singers and/or musicians...just great performers that make you feel glad that you were there. Oh so talented and spot on with the music while at the same time being funny, warm and inviting...almost like a member of the family. Can't wait to see them again! Good job on the reaction.

[@469buck]

These people never cease to amaze me...

[@ilblues]

About 1970 one of my good friends in high school traded his CTA double album for a couple LPs I didn't like. I fairly wore CTA out on our old Magnavox console stereo and pair of Pioneer SE305 headphones when dad and mom got tired of listening to it. Covered Beginnings and Does anybody really know what time it is in my college band. Pulled up horn players from the high school jazz band to play along - but never sounded like Leonid and Friends. Can't help but smile and remember when Beginnings comes up on the play list. It was Beginnings that prompted me to get a 12 string. ;^)

[@StrateleStudios]

Love it! 😅👏👏👏🫶

[@marilyn6446]

Such talent,everyone of them ! Would love to go see them!

[@lukeparsons1187]

Same.. I listened to all my favorite songs first.. I only just listened to this today for the first time.. Sergey has an absolutely amazing lead vocal.. all the performances are just next level amazing.

[@jerrikeefer8219]

Saw them last night for the third time. They are so good live!!

[@claudedimarco2445]

Jeff, I love your reactions to L&F videos, especially the Chicago songs. It’s a credit to Leonid that he chose to do so many Chicago songs, as he obviously recognizes great talent, both in the songs he chooses to cover and in the musicians and singers he assembles. The brass does an exceptional job of duplicating the fantastic arrangements of Jimmy Pankow. And Igor killed it as he always does. Igor met Danny Seraphine and they have great admiration for each other. Looking forward to more of these reactions with your insightful analysis.

[@jbach4311]

Thanks "Bad Ass" Awesome Pick!! Love that Bad Ass 12 String!!

[@Hettepop]

I still have the 45 vinyl in my original cardboard record box. It reminds me of when I was a broke newlywed and playing our newly merged record collection was our main form of entertainment. I appreciate that L&F did the FM radio, “album cut” of this song! Glad you enjoyed it as much as I did!

Doesn't this just remind of what a remarkable group Chicago was. SO SO SO many childhood memories.

[@StrateleStudios]

Yes!

[@dbcanada]

Thanks, Jeff. Man that feels good. It really takes me back in time; great memories.

[@bnm0312]

How can you not love these guys? I saw them live in Cincy last weekend and Beginnings live was just as good as this was. Such a fun band to watch, too. You want to shake Leonid's hand? They're currently touring the east coast, and the fall tour was just announced, and they'll be all over the Midwest in September and October. Go watch them!

[@StrateleStudios]

Ya they are coming my way, I’ll be there

[@AmirFazadh]

I cannot wait to see these guys in October- Meet and Greet! Leonid and I actually have a lot in common, I'm going to thoroughly enjoy talking to him! We're both multi-instrumentalists/bassists, we've both played many of the same venues in SoCal (Coach House, Belly Up Tavern, a few more), and we've both played with Tris Imboden (Chicago's drummer) on drums. I do miss Sergey Kashirin being in this band, but Konstantin is finally settling into his groove. I know that Leonid's choices for personnel are solid, the band keeps getting even better (how THAT is possible, I don't know!)...and in Russia, they set the atomic clocks to Igor's drumming- he never misses! The whole band is incredible, one of my all-time favorites!

[@johncourtright1632]

It's so emotional listening to this!! This was the first album I ever bought! The song is such a masterpiece, and it was played so beautifully!! The trombone solo... oh my goodness!!! Everything about it just goes right into your soul!! 🎶

[@DOC36121]

When you are looking for the definition of a Tribute Band, you don't have to look any farther than L&F! They are the definition!

[@lionheartroar3104]

The ultimate tribute band for whomever they want to honor.

[@richardtodd7295]

Lets make this easy Jeff, I've liked every L&F video, and I don't think they will ever put out a bad one. So here it is for all their future videos; Another great one! Keep them coming!!!

[@rickderby8438]

Jeff, as much as I love this cover, I LOVE your reactions and analysis. I learned of you from your reactions to the Foxes and Fossils. Back to the cover, WOW. I love early CHICAGO. And man, these guys KILLED IT. Maybe how F&F covers CSN, this group covers CHICAGO. Well, I'm going to find out. Thanks for this reaction. Love you man!!!!

[@StrateleStudios]

Rick, brother, you just made my day, thank you! 😃🫶🫶🫶

[@rickderby8438]

@@StrateleStudios Jeff, it's your positive approach to life. I walk with you.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@rickderby8438 so glad you get it, too! 🫶

[@ElaineCarr-w6h]

What does it for me on this song is that Baritone sax hitting that low c in the second verse . It just rounds out the whole horn section into a truly full rich sound.

[@michaeldemasi8677]

Incredible! If I wasn’t looking I’d never know this wasn’t Chicago. Incredible musicians and the vocals are amazing.

[@Gary-go3ob]

Spectacular!

[@robpohlman2959]

I love these guys…..Chicago my all time favorite band!!!!!!!!

[@michaelbradley7529]

Always so satisfying.

[@scotstevens5263]

After listening to them on KZbin, I just had to check them out live. So I saw these guys at Adiamos, a small dinner club in Warren Mich. couple yrs ago. They were great and the happy energy they put out. Would love to see them perform again.😊

[@Dr.yes1963]

Amazing band!

[@richardgallegos5624]

damn! their play so clean

[@M00159]

The pure joy on your face was absolutely fantastic!! This group is unbelievably good.

[@RobertMarks-v5z]

Absolutely outstanding! These guys are the real deal!!

[@MattVeralli]

I mean, this video was the one that made me follow you. I enjoy listening to all kind of music, music that might be only known by the ones who play it, and their family, but makes you happy in your heart. Greetings from BA, Arg 🇦🇷

[@StrateleStudios]

This one was so great to watch!

[@Gary-go3ob]

The music is fantastic

[@kragfearghal]

Awesome performance, took me back to my first time listening to Chicago Transit Authority Album, wonderful band thanks for sharing.

[@RussDavis-xr2ue]

My favorite

[@felixnorman9562]

Your ears are not failing!

[@keithdrewv1161]

Easily one of my favorite L&F tribute performances!!! So tight, on point and beautifully executed, simply amazing!!!

[@a-townhoops9002]

Hi Jeff. Love Chicago and this song.

[@tomoday4450]

The very best 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@gregharmon3797]

Jeff I can’t decide who I like looking at more, you or Ksenia. Oh wait !! It’s Ksenia. 😊 Thanks for another great video !!

[@redfox4098]

I grew up with this music and I still find they sound better than original.

[@gregsteele806]

Thank you, Chicago, and Earth Wind and Fire for instilling such a love of music (and awesome horn sections) in me at an early age.

[@buckeyedj8255]

While I had seen a few other of L&F on YT, it was this song that really made me into a fan of theirs. I've now seen them 3 or 4 times in concert, and I am always happiest when they play Beginnings.

[@bradpeterson5299]

So good! I heard Chicago's music through the 70's and 80's. I liked their music back then, but since hearing Leonid and friends perform it over the last few years, I have started to really enjoy it. I believe they do a better job than Chicago did.

[@jackarmstrong1838]

God what a great baritone voice he has! He captured Roberts essence on this one. The phrasing is immaculate!

[@bradleyjjohnson]

I am in awe of how good this is. So true to the original. The singing, the horns, the drums - sublime.

[@deantait8326]

Probably my favorite CTA (Chicago) song …

[@cj4freedom856]

Really enjoy Serge playing the 12 string, he is so at ease on vocals.

[@charlesh946]

Trombone and Trumpet pure 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥!

[@markfarley671]

Chicago would and should be proud. L&F is the best cover/tribute band. I've seen them perform twice and hope to see them again this coming fall.

[@samhaskins2506]

That Japanese 12 string is amazing!!!!!!! This definitely recorded BEFORE Feb 2022, seeing Serge T in the same studio as the rest of them! My FAV number from the CTA Black Album, woohoo! (Aside from "Does anyone really know what the time it is")

[@mbt1955]

Their drummer is named Igor because he is a Monster!! Ksenia does a wonderful job by just being in the video. Love L&F!!!

[@erik1836]

But, alas, Kensia is so hard on the eyes! Lol "Hard" to look at her and not feeling like falling in love.

[@dennis48]

Perfect 10

[@jimwebster7317]

One of the very first I heard. Fell in love immediately. Been the biggest fan since then. So bad ass!!! Thanks Jeff and bad ass. :))

[@saaamember97]

Oh, holy crap that was good! I'm still singing and dancing in my bedroom.

[@jeffreyjacobs390]

The Russian way to throw in some solid horns is USE SIX HORNS ..... of course CHICAGO used just three ( Trombone, Trumpet & Sax / other) .... the craftsmanship of all in instrument or vocal is joyful and precise - a wonderful thing to hear. GBjj

[@markweber4854]

Jeff, you need to hear them do the other Robert Lamm hits, Saturday in the park and Does anybody really know what time it is. You won't be disappointed!

[@tomoday4450]

Just incredible 👍🏻